Quick Tap app and NFC technology enable contactless payment

The app, which will work on any 'quick tap' enabled handsets that feature Near Field Communications (NFC) technology, and enables users to make payments by simply waving their handset across a special contactless reader in a store.

A Barclaycard, Barclays debit or Orange Credit Card is also required. Users must first transfer funds of up to £100 to the Quick Tap app. Once that has been completed they can make payments of up to £15 per transaction. For extra security, the app offers the option of a PIN which a user must enter before every transaction. The app also lets smartphone owners keep a check on the transactions and total expenditure taking place.

Moe than 50,000 stores across the UK, including Boots, Pret A Manger, McDonalds and Wilkinsons have agreed to install contactless readers.

Furthermore, Barclaycard is offering anyone who uses the service a £10 cash incentive, which will be added to their account on activation, along with 10 percent cash back on any Quick Tap purchases they make.

"We no longer use our mobile phones simply for talking and texting - apps, cameras and music players allow us to use them for a lot more. So, making contactless payments with your mobile is a natural and really exciting innovation which we're pleased to be leading on in the UK," said Pippa Dunn, Orange's Vice President,

"Orange Quick Tap is the first of its kind, a service that allows you to pay for everyday items just by tapping your phone wherever you see the contactless payment symbol. It's going to start a revolution in the way we pay for things on the high street."

The Samsung Tocco 'Quick Tap' is the first handset compatible with the contactless payment service and is available from Orange now, for £59 on a Pay-as-you-go basis.